The Sahel region, which spans several countries in West and Central Africa, is often perceived as an area of challenges, particularly in terms of security, climate, and economic development. However, this region has immense potential to revolutionize access to renewable energy in Africa. With exceptional solar exposure, untapped wind resources, and a population seeking sustainable energy, the Sahel could become a model for energy development in Africa and beyond.
Sahel : Exceptional Sunlight
The Sahel benefits from some of the highest levels of sunlight in the world, with an average of 3,000 hours of sunshine per year. According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), this region receives about 5 to 7 kWh/m²/day, making it an ideal ground for solar energy development. In 2022, the installed solar capacity in sub-Saharan Africa was about 2.5 GW, but the Sahel could easily reach several tens of gigawatts if the necessary investments are made.
Ongoing Solar Projects
Ambitious solar projects are already underway in several Sahel countries. For example, the Noor Ouarzazate project in Morocco, one of the largest solar power plants in the world, has a capacity of 580 MW and could serve as a model for other initiatives in the region. Additionally, countries like Niger and Mali are launching mini-grid solar projects to provide electricity to rural areas, where access to energy is often limited.
Untapped Wind Resources
Besides solar energy, the Sahel also has considerable wind potential. The coastal and desert areas of the Sahel can benefit from constant winds, making them ideal sites for wind farms. According to a study by the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO), the wind potential of the region could reach 10 GW by 2030.
Wind Initiatives
Wind projects are beginning to emerge in countries like Senegal, where the Taiba N’Diaye wind farm, inaugurated in 2020, has a capacity of 158 MW. This project has not only contributed to diversifying the country’s energy mix but also created local jobs to boost the regional economy.
Energy Access and Economic Development
Access to energy is a crucial issue for economic development in Africa. According to the World Bank, about 600 million people in sub-Saharan Africa do not have access to electricity. In the Sahel, this situation is even more worrying, with electrification rates varying from 10 % to 30 % in some countries. Renewable energy could play a key role in improving this situation.
Impact on Local Communities
Access to renewable energy sources can transform the lives of local communities. For example, electrifying rural areas would allow schools to have access to electricity, thus promoting education. Moreover, small businesses could benefit from a reliable power supply, thereby stimulating local entrepreneurship. A study by the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) shows that every dollar invested in renewable energy could generate up to 3 USD of economic benefits.
Challenges to Overcome
Despite the immense potential of the Sahel region, several challenges must be overcome to achieve this energy revolution.
Financing Issues
Financing remains one of the main obstacles to the development of renewable energy in the Sahel. According to the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) report, about 70 billion USD in investments would be needed by 2030 to achieve the region’s electrification goals. Governments, private investors, and international organizations must collaborate to mobilize these funds.
Upgrading Infrastructure
The energy infrastructure in the Sahel is often inadequate. Electrical grids are aging and not adapted to integrate renewable energies. Investments in transport and distribution infrastructures are necessary to ensure that the energy produced reaches consumers.
Establishing a Regulatory Framework
A precise and stable regulatory framework is essential to attract investments in the renewable energy sector. Governments must implement favorable policies, such as tax incentives and guaranteed purchase tariffs, to encourage the development of renewable energy projects.
Future of Renewable Energy
The future of renewable energy in the Sahel region is promising. With growing political will and increased investor interest, the region could become a leader in sustainable energy in Africa. Initiatives such as the African Union’s Rural Electrification Program and the Africa Renewable Energy Partnership (AREP) aim to support the development of renewable energy in the region.
Regional Collaboration
Collaboration among Sahel countries is essential to maximize the region’s energy potential. Cross-border projects, such as the Sahel Solar Initiative (ISES) solar power plant project, could allow resource sharing and energy production optimization.
International Engagement in the Sahel
Aware of the region’s potential, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is implementing the United Nations Integrated Strategy for the Sahel (UNISS), aiming to provide clean and affordable energy to more than 150 million people by 2025. Since 2021, renewable energy initiatives have benefited more than 70.7 million people in areas such as the Lake Chad Basin and Liptako-Gourma.
These efforts are supported by partners such as Sweden, Germany, the Netherlands, the United Kingdom, the African Development Bank, Norway, Japan, and local actors. Together, they leverage the productive use of energy to combat structural energy poverty while considering climate and security issues.
The Sahel region has the potential to revolutionize access to renewable energy in Africa. With exceptional sunlight, exploited wind resources, and a population seeking sustainable energy, the Sahel could become a model for energy development in Africa.
However, to realize this potential, it is crucial to overcome challenges related to financing, infrastructure, and the regulatory framework. By working together, the Sahel countries can transform this region into a renewable energy leader, thus contributing to a sustainable energy future for Africa.
